Wedding Reception DJ Strategy: Give a List Or a Creative License?

Music is an important element in your wedding reception.  Now that you have finally decided to hire a DJ and spent a great deal of time choosing the right one, what should you do about the songs - should you give your DJ a list or should you let him or her decide on the best tunes to keep your celebration lively?

Wedding Reception Tip #1: Know Your DJ

Your DJ's level of experience, specifically with wedding receptions, will have a lot to do with your strategy.  A DJ that specializes in receptions should already have a good idea of what works and what doesn't.  They're coaxing guests onto the dance floor nearly every weekend and can easily recognize what seems to be popular with a particular group of people.  A friend or relative that offered to provide the reception music, on the other hand, may require a little more direction.  Meet with your DJ a few weeks before the wedding date and discuss your concerns.  Some may already have a list of songs they do not play at weddings and most won't mind receiving your input.

Wedding Reception Tip #2: The DJ Should Never Decide...

There are a few special moments during your wedding reception that demand your song selection, regardless of how much experience your DJ may have.  Even if you've decided to give your DJ some creative leeway, provide him or her with a list of these songs:

• First dance;
• Father/daughter dance;
• Last dance;
• And the cake cutting ceremony.

If your reception will include a mother/son feature, a bridal party dance, or any other traditional moment - you should include those songs as well.

Wedding Reception Tip #3: Not That Song

There are some songs that are just not appropriate for weddings; many are overplayed; and some tunes make you cringe every time you hear them - do not play lists are for songs like these.  Some DJs have compiled their own lists based on the opinions of other couples and several will ask you to create a do not play list before the wedding day.  This list can include specific songs or could block entire genres from your reception.

The DJ can usually manage the rest of the wedding reception music, but there's nothing wrong with providing a complete play list if it makes you more comfortable.  It's usually a good idea to talk with your DJ and discuss the strategy that works best for them as well.